June 2019: Green Tips

Tips for a smooth move out

When you move out at the end of the quarter, it may seem generous to leave unwanted items on the sidewalk with a “FREE” sign. Unfortunately, this material often ends up in our waterways, green spaces, the bay, or in landfills. Instead, try the following for a smooth move out:

• Stop purchasing items that you use infrequently. Common items in the trash during move out include partially used condiments, cereal, pasta and other packaged food.

• Pack up and move early. Pack items that you don’t use every day and move them early. Moving items early means the rest of your stuff has a better chance of fitting into your car.

• Swap or sell items online. To offer your unwanted items for free or for sale, list them on Freecycle, Craigslist, or Next Door Santa Cruz.

• Donate unwanted items to a local charity. Only do this if your items are in good condition. Many charities are unable to take items that are ripped, stained, broken, bent, frayed, or worn. This is especially true for bulky items such as couches, mattresses, desks, and dining room tables. For more information, check Goodwill’s online site or Hope Services.

• Recycle early. Recycle carts overflow during move out, so clear out extra papers and accumulated bottles and cans early or visit a local recycling drop off center for additional recycling. For a current list of acceptable items visit www.cityofsantacruz.com/recycleright

• Recycle special and household hazardous waste responsibly. To recycle household chemicals likebathroom cleaners, nail polish, aerosol cans (not empty), bleach, disinfectants and a whole list of other items go to the Household Hazardous Waste Facility on Dimeo Lane. Open Saturdays 7:30AM-3:30PM.

• As a last resort, for bulky items that can no longer be reused, schedule a pickup with the city of Santa Cruz in the month of June: These pickups are only for large bulky items that will be taken to the landfill. This includes mattresses, box springs, couches, and living-room chairs. To arrange a pickup, register online with the city of Santa Cruz after May 27. If you register for a bulky item pick-up, you will receive a free large pizza coupon for Woodstock’s pizza!

Thank you for your help keeping our environment clean and our landfill free of items that can be reused!